Pitts Model 12
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| Pitts Model 12 | |
|---|---|
 Factory-built Pitts 12S | |
| General information | |
| Type | Aerobatic Biplane |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | 92nd West Aviation |
| Designer | |
| Number built | 59 (2011)[1] |
| History | |
| First flight | March 1996 |
The Pitts Model 12 (also known by its nicknames "Bolshoi," "Macho Stinker," and "Pitts Monster")[2] is a high-performance aerobatic biplane designed around the Vedeneyev M14P/PF radial engine. The aircraft can be built from plans or as a kitplane, or bought ready-to-fly from the factory.[3]
The Pitts Model 12 was designed by Curtis Pitts starting in 1993. Pitts presented his completed design on his 80th birthday in December 1995.[4]
The Pitts Model 12 is a biplane built using fabric covered welded steel tubing for the fuselage, and fabric covered wings with wood spars. The leading edge is made of formed plywood. The landing gear is solid aluminum.[citation needed]
Operational history
Variants
There are several model variants:[citation needed]
- Plans built
- HP model - kit
- Model 12S - factory built
- A single-place variant called "The Beast" constructed by Jim Kimball[5]
